This extended genealogical history provides a narrative account of the Polk family, beginning with a short account of their residence in Ireland, and continuing with the transfer to the American colonies and the overall success of the family in the United States. The election of James K. Polk as President of the United States in 1844 provided the incentive to record the progress of the larger family of which he was part. They all were descendants of Robert and Magdalen Polk, who came to the Maryland-Delaware region in the 17th century. The family traces its roots back to the Pollocks in Scotland, who in turn moved to Ireland and on to the American colonies.